How Lubbock’s Weather Affects Your Plumbing Year-Round

Living in Lubbock, Texas, means dealing with a wide range of weather conditions — from hot, dry summers to chilly winters that sometimes bring freezing temperatures. These weather extremes can have a surprising impact on your home’s plumbing. At Cotton City Plumbing, we help homeowners understand the seasonal risks so you can avoid costly repairs.

Here’s how Lubbock’s weather affects your plumbing all year long, and what you can do to protect your home.

Winter: Protecting Pipes from the Freeze

Even though Lubbock doesn’t get heavy snow, temperatures can dip below freezing in the winter months. Cold weather can cause your water pipes to freeze and even burst, leading to major water damage.

Common issues in winter:

• Frozen or burst pipes

• Low water pressure due to ice blockages

• Leaking joints caused by expanding ice

Tips to prevent winter plumbing problems:

• Insulate exposed pipes, especially in unheated areas like garages or crawl spaces

• Let faucets drip during extreme cold snaps to keep water moving

• Schedule a winter plumbing check-up to catch weak pipes before they fail

Spring: Rain, Runoff, and Sewer Concerns

Springtime in Lubbock can bring occasional heavy rains. While our city isn’t known for flooding, excessive water can stress your sewer and drainage systems.

Common issues in spring:

• Sewer backups from clogged or aging pipes

• Slow-draining sinks, tubs, or toilets

• Leaks caused by water pressure fluctuations

Tips for spring plumbing care:

• Clear debris from gutters and outdoor drains

• Schedule a drain cleaning or sewer inspection

• Check outdoor faucets and irrigation systems for leaks

Summer: Heat and Dry Conditions

Lubbock summers can get extremely hot and dry, with temperatures often topping 100°F. While this doesn’t freeze pipes, it can affect water supply lines and water heaters.

Common issues in summer:

• Water heater malfunctions due to high usage

• Cracks in outdoor pipes from ground shifting

• Increased risk of sewer line blockages from outdoor water usage

Tips for summer plumbing maintenance:

• Inspect your water heater and flush sediment build-up

• Check sprinkler systems for leaks or cracks

• Keep an eye on outdoor plumbing exposed to sun and heat

Fall: Preparing for Winter

Fall is the perfect time to prepare your plumbing for the colder months ahead. Cooler temperatures can highlight any vulnerabilities in your system before winter arrives.

Common issues in fall:

• Dripping faucets or leaks from aging pipes

• Early signs of frozen pipe risk

• Water pressure changes from seasonal temperature swings

Tips for fall plumbing prep:

• Schedule a plumbing inspection to catch potential winter problems

• Insulate pipes if you haven’t done so yet

• Test your water heater and replace old components

Year-Round Plumbing Tips for Lubbock Homeowners

No matter the season, there are a few things you can do to protect your home’s plumbing:

1. Regular inspections – Catch problems before they escalate.

2. Drain cleaning – Prevent clogs and backups.

3. Water heater maintenance – Extend its life and efficiency.

4. Pipe protection – Insulate and repair aging pipes.

5. Emergency plan – Know who to call if a plumbing problem occurs.

Trust Cotton City Plumbing for Year-Round Protection

Weather in Lubbock can be unpredictable, but your plumbing doesn’t have to be. At Cotton City Plumbing, we provide inspection, repair, and maintenance services to keep your home safe and running smoothly year-round.